Identity proofing is the process of collecting and validating evidence to establish that a claimed identity corresponds to a real, unique person before issuing credentials or granting access. It typically combines document verification, biometric checks, and authoritative-source confirmation, graded by assurance levels such as those defined in NIST SP 800-63A. Identity proofing precedes authentication and is foundational to trustworthy onboarding.
Content
- Proofing workflows resolve, validate, and verify identity evidence, escalating from self-asserted to remote biometric and in-person checks as the required assurance level rises. Stronger proofing reduces downstream fraud and synthetic-identity risk but must be balanced against onboarding friction and inclusion concerns.